Public perceptions of cross-cascading climate change impacts: evidence from Bucharest, Romania

The aim of the study was to identify cross-cascading impacts of climate change as perceived by the general public, in order to further develop strategies for education and awareness. The study employed an open-ended survey conducted in the city of Bucharest, located in southern Romania. Respondents were asked to provide examples of climate change impacts across different categories (environment, society, and economics).

The respondents identified a wide variety of environmental consequences, the most frequently mentioned being the increased frequency and/or magnitude of meteorological, climatic, and hydrological hazards. Drought ranked highest, being identified by 48% of all respondents. Public health emerged as the most important societal concern related to climate change (mentioned by 39% of respondents), with particular emphasis on the fatal effects of heat waves (designated by 10% of respondents). From an economic perspective, losses in agriculture were considered the most significant consequence of climate change by 59% of respondents.

In addition to these general findings, several specific perceptions emerged. 17% of respondents considered rising prices to be a consequence of climate change; in the context of water scarcity, they anticipated higher costs for irrigation, hydropower generation, fluvial transportation, and new methods to reduce water pollution, ultimately leading to higher prices of final products. This was followed by concerns regarding a decline in living standards. Furthermore, 20% of respondents indicated that industry and services are changing their structure in response to green requirements, while outdoor labor conditions are increasingly influenced by extreme weather, leading to labor market changes aimed at adapting to these new conditions.

The responses demonstrated a good understanding of the natural phenomena and processes occurring in southern Romania in recent years. They also revealed concerns regarding the future evolution of the economy. Overall, respondents showed a clear awareness of the cross-cascading impacts of climate change. However, climate change cannot be dissociated from other factors influencing social life and economic development; therefore, respondents’ perceptions are likely shaped by a multitude of contributing elements.

In a proactive approach, new curricula and academic study programs should be developed to address extreme weather, water scarcity, and the evolving labor market in southern Romania, in order to support career integration and ensure a sense of financial security.